Cherry MX Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Brown stand out as popular choices. The MX Red is a linear switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the WS Brown is a tactile switch that offers a harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation with a medium-light actuation force. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky,' 'Low-pitched,' and 'Textured,' the WS Brown does not have specific categories listed. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Brown utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom switch housings. This commonality means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound than harder plastics and creating a duller and rounder sound. This means that users can expect a consistent typing sound and feel when using either switch.
However, despite the shared material, there may be differences in the overall sound and feel between the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Brown due to other factors such as stem design or spring weight. While the nylon housing plays a significant role in the sound profile, these additional features can impact the overall typing experience. It is important for users to consider these differences when choosing between the two switches to find the one that best suits their preferences.
In considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the typing experience, it can be observed that the bottom housing of a switch has a more significant effect on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released. Understanding how each component contributes to the overall typing experience can help users make an informed decision when selecting a switch for their keyboard. Ultimately, while both the Cherry MX Red and Wuque Studio WS Brown share nylon housing material, the overall typing experience may still vary based on other factors unique to each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences for users. The Cherry MX Red is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams, making it easier to type on for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. However, it does not have a specified bottom out force, so it may not provide as much feedback when fully pressing down. On the other hand, the WS Brown has a higher bottom out force of 55 grams, which provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The actuation force for the WS Brown is not provided, but it is known to be medium-light. Overall, the Cherry MX Red is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the WS Brown offers a heavier bottom out force for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Cherry MX Red being slightly longer than the WS Brown. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Brown for faster response times, while those who prefer a deeper keypress may opt for the Cherry MX Red. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar level of feedback and actuation, so users can expect a comparable typing experience regardless of the slight difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
The Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Red switch is often praised for its thocky and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and satisfying sound when typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch's sound qualities are not explicitly described, so it may not offer the same level of depth and richness as the MX Red switch. However, both switches can be affected by factors such as the keyboard build and keycap material, so individual preferences may vary.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Red is noted for its textured feel, which can add a subtle friction when typing. Some users appreciate this tactile feedback, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience. Unfortunately, specific information about the feel of the WS Brown switch is not provided, so it is unclear how it compares to the MX Red in terms of texture and tactility.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Red switch offers a slightly heavier feel and a deeper sound profile compared to the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch. While the MX Red switch provides a textured feel and a thocky, low-pitched sound, the WS Brown switch offers a medium-light actuation force and a harmonious auditory experience. If you enjoy a more robust and tactile typing experience, the Cherry MX Red switch may be more suitable for you. However, if you prefer a balance of responsiveness and comfort with a familiar sound profile, the WS Brown switch could be the right choice. Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, along with a smoother linear typing experience, the Cherry MX Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, along with fatigue-free typing during extended sessions, the WS Brown tactile switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference and the typing experience you prioritize the most. Choose wisely based on your individual needs and enjoy the satisfying typing experience that each switch has to offer.
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